A Horse's Friend

Where Kids Saddle Up for SUCCESS

About Us

Our Mission and Purpose

Since its foundation in 2004, A Horse’s Friend, Inc., an outreach program whose mission is to expose youth from the inner city and underserved populations to the world of horses, has touched the lives of over 5,000 such youth, disadvantaged and otherwise underprivileged children. AHF has provided children alternatives to street activities that may lead to truancy, violence and drug use. In addition, AHF adds a new dimension of experiences and life choices not commonly provided at inner city facilities. The entire program provides an environment in which all riders can achieve success, support each other, and develop special bonds with other children and animals, all while helping to develop their full potential and becoming more productive citizens in their community.

Matthew Doward, the founder and executive director of A Horse’s Friend, Inc., has spent over 20 years working with inner city youth and members of the community in promoting positive values, increasing social competencies, and teaching children to respect themselves and others through working with horses.

Fund Raising Campaign

ROC the Day – Giving Tuesday
December 2nd

Each year, our community comes together through United Way’s ROC the Day to support the nonprofits that bring hope, connection, and opportunity to people across the Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region.

This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to help lift up A Horse’s Friend, Inc. as part of this incredible day of local generosity.

Our youth program provides a safe, welcoming space where young people build confidence, learn responsibility, and discover the healing bond between horses and humans. Your support helps us continue offering scholarships, caring for our horses, and creating meaningful experiences that change lives.

If you’re able, please take a moment on December 2nd to ROC the Day with us:

🔗 ahorsesfriend.org
📲 Or scan the QR code to give directly.

Thank you for choosing to make a difference right here at home. Together, we can lift up our youth—one child and one horse at a time. 💙💛

https://unitedwayrocflx.org/roc-the-day/causes/ahorsesfriend

Calendar Fundraiser

Looking for a unique stocking stuffer this holiday season?!

AHF calendars are now available for purchase. Your donation of $15 will support our fundraising campaign and help spread the beauty of White Springs Farm, the AHF program horses, and our programs.